If you are looking for an elegant, yet straightforward main dish for Christmas, this pistachio-crusted baked salmon offers a stunning combination of flavours and presentation. The recipe combines the nutty richness of pistachios with tender, flaky salmon, creating a dish that’s both visually impressive and incredibly delicious. Serve it as the centrepiece for your Christmas spread, and watch as it becomes a festive favourite.
Ingredients
Salmon
• 680g whole skin-on salmon, or 4 (170g) individual fillets
• Kosher or sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Purchase high-quality salmon here.
For the Glaze
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 30 ml lemon juice (zest the lemon before juicing)
• 30g unsalted butter, melted (or olive oil for a lighter option)
• 15 ml honey
For the Pistachio Crust
• 15g melted butter or olive oil
• 120g shelled roasted pistachios, finely chopped
• 25g panko or regular breadcrumbs (optional for extra crunch)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley or dill, or a mix of both, plus more for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Season the Salmon
Pat the salmon dry with paper towels, then season with salt and pepper. Place it skin-side down on the prepared baking tray.
3. Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, combine the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, melted butter (or olive oil), and honey. Brush this glaze generously over the salmon.
4. Prepare the Pistachio Crust
In a separate bowl, mix the finely chopped pistachios, breadcrumbs (if using), minced garlic, lemon zest, and chopped herbs. Add the melted butter or olive oil to help bind the mixture. Stir until well combined.
5. Coat the Salmon
Press the pistachio mixture onto the glazed side of each salmon fillet, covering it evenly. Drizzle with a bit more melted butter or olive oil to encourage browning.
6. Bake
Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the pistachio crust is golden brown.
7. Serve and Garnish
Transfer the salmon to a serving platter and garnish with additional herbs, if desired. Add lemon wedges on the side for a touch of fresh citrus. Pair this festive dish with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad to complete your Christmas meal.
Why Pistachio-Crusted Salmon is Perfect for Christmas.
This pistachio-crusted salmon is a statement main dish. The rich green of the pistachios, the golden glaze, and the vibrant herbs create a beautiful presentation that’s perfect for a festive occasion. Moreover, the combination of flavours—tangy Dijon, sweet honey, and the earthy crunch of pistachios—enhances the delicate flavour of the salmon, resulting in a dish that’s both refined and crowd-pleasing.
Tips for Success
• Choosing Salmon: Opt for high-quality, fresh salmon fillets with the skin on for best results. The skin helps retain moisture, keeping the salmon tender.
• Chopping the Pistachios: For a finer crust, chop the pistachios by hand or pulse them gently in a food processor. Be careful not to over-process, as a coarse texture is ideal.
• Serving Ideas: This dish pairs beautifully with roasted Brussels sprouts, creamy mashed potatoes, or a vibrant pomegranate salad.
Bring the flavours of the season to your table with this impressive pistachio-crusted baked salmon.